Simple Problems
lets start with a game.
Here is a 2D6 table of typical computer failures. The operator is, for whatever reason, isolated from a professional support team and the problem need to be resolved by the computer operator on their own. Either roll dice, or just pick one. Read it, have a quick think and state or write your proposed way to a resolution.
What is your suggested fix ?
| Number | Issue | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Hard drive failure | The computer’s hard drive has failed and needs to be replaced. |
| 3 | Blue screen of death | The computer has crashed and is displaying a blue screen with an error message. |
| 4 | Power supply failure | The computer is not turning on and the power supply needs to be replaced. |
| 5 | Virus infection | The computer has been infected with a virus and needs to be cleaned and secured. |
| 6 | Corrupt system files | The computer’s operating system has corrupt files that need to be repaired or reinstalled. |
| 7 | Overheating | The computer is overheating and needs better ventilation or additional cooling. |
| 8 | Driver issues | The computer’s drivers are outdated or missing and need to be updated or installed. |
| 9 | Network connectivity issues | The computer is having trouble connecting to the network and needs troubleshooting. |
| 10 | Peripheral failure | A peripheral device such as a printer, scanner or external hard drive is not working properly and needs to be fixed or replaced. |
| 11 | Software conflicts | Two or more pieces of software are conflicting with each other and causing issues that need to be resolved. |
| 12 | RAM failure | The computer’s RAM has failed and needs to be replaced. |
| 13 | BIOS error | The computer’s BIOS is not working properly and needs to be reset or updated. |
Note: This is just a starting point, and you can modify the computer failures to fit your your audiences preferences. Additionally, you can use these computer failures as the basis for larger through experiments, or combine them to create more complex problem with technological challenges.
Here are some possible resolution states for the 2d6 computer failures table I provided above.
Most of these are obvious, so likely you nailed it ! or came real close ?
| Number | Issue | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Hard drive failure | The operator needs to replace the failed hard drive with a new one and reinstall the operating system and software. |
| 3 | Blue screen of death | The operator needs to diagnose the error message and troubleshoot the issue, which could involve updating drivers, repairing corrupt files, or resetting the system. |
| 4 | Power supply failure | The operator needs to replace the failed power supply with a new one. |
| 5 | Virus infection | The operator needs to run anti-virus software to detect and remove the virus, and also implement better security measures to prevent future infections. |
| 6 | Corrupt system files | The operator needs to repair or reinstall the operating system and software. |
| 7 | Overheating | The operator needs to improve the computer’s ventilation and cooling systems, or replace malfunctioning fans or heatsinks. |
| 8 | Driver issues | The operator needs to download and install the latest drivers for the affected hardware, or uninstall and reinstall the drivers to resolve conflicts. |
| 9 | Network connectivity issues | The operator needs to diagnose the connection issues and troubleshoot the network, which could involve resetting the router, checking network settings, or repairing cables. |
| 10 | Peripheral failure | The operator needs to troubleshoot the peripheral device, which could involve updating drivers, replacing cables, or resetting the device. |
| 11 | Software conflicts | The operator needs to identify the conflicting software and uninstall one of them, or update them to compatible versions. |
| 12 | RAM failure | The operator needs to identify and replace the failed RAM with new modules. |
| 13 | BIOS error | The operator needs to diagnose the error message and either reset or update the BIOS settings. |
Note: These resolutions are just general guidelines and may vary depending on the specific scenario in the real world. As always, it’s up to the operator to decide what resolution is appropriate for their problem. In this scenario, is going to need to read the manual or go online and look up how to do thing. The operator is likely going to have to buy or get locally stocked spare parts, or will probably end up download items from the internet. Life is really much easier if your have an IT department…
Just for completeness, lets look the computer failures table, and provide a list of incorrect solutions.
| Number | Issue | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Hard drive failure | The operator tries to recover the data from the failed hard drive, but accidentally causes further damage and data loss. |
| 3 | Blue screen of death | The operator attempts to fix the issue without proper knowledge or tools, causing further system instability. |
| 4 | Power supply failure | The operator tries to use a power supply with incorrect specifications, leading to further hardware damage. |
| 5 | Virus infection | The operator ignores the virus and continues to use the computer, which spreads the infection to other devices on the network. |
| 6 | Corrupt system files | The operator tries to repair the corrupt files without proper knowledge or tools, causing further system instability. |
| 7 | Overheating | The operator tries to cool down the computer with a makeshift solution, causing further damage or fire hazard. |
| 8 | Driver issues | The operator installs incorrect drivers or malware disguised as drivers, leading to further system instability and security risks. |
| 9 | Network connectivity issues | The operator disables security protocols to allow easier network access, exposing the network to security threats. |
| 10 | Peripheral failure | The operator tries to fix the peripheral device with makeshift solutions, causing further damage or electrical hazards. |
| 11 | Software conflicts | The operator deletes critical system files or registry keys, causing further system instability or even data loss. |
| 12 | RAM failure | The operator continues to use the computer with the failed RAM, leading to system crashes and data corruption. |
| 13 | BIOS error | The operator resets the BIOS to default settings without proper knowledge or tools, causing further system instability |
Note: These incorrect solutions are meant to illustrate the potential consequences of incorrect or ill-informed actions, and may vary depending on the specific scenario and the real world. As always, it’s either up to the operator to decide what is the appropriate action and own the consequence, or ask for Support.
So, since this is still a game, lets look at some possibly weird, bizarre, or genius solutions (depending on your viewpoint) to the computer failure problems:
| Number | Issue | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Hard drive failure | The operator uses an electromagnet to realign the failed hard drive’s magnetic fields, restoring it to a functional state. |
| 3 | Blue screen of death | The operator realizes the error message is actually a hidden message in a secret code and deciphers it to reveal a clue to a larger conspiracy. |
| 4 | Power supply failure | The operator uses a jury-rigged system of batteries and solar panels to power the computer. |
| 5 | Virus infection | The operator creates a “vaccine” program that infects the virus with a counter-virus, effectively neutralizing it. |
| 6 | Corrupt system files | The operator uses a quantum computer to scan and repair the corrupt files, restoring the system to an even better state than before. |
| 7 | Overheating | The operator immerses the computer in a liquid coolant that cools it down without the need for fans or heatsinks. |
| 8 | Driver issues | The operator reprograms the drivers with a custom code that optimizes their performance and resolves the conflicts. |
| 9 | Network connectivity issues | The operator uses a quantum entanglement device to establish a stable, instantaneous network connection that bypasses the need for physical cables or wireless signals. |
| 10 | Peripheral failure | The operator invents a new type of peripheral device that integrates with the computer’s neural network, allowing for direct mental control. |
| 11 | Software conflicts | The operator creates a custom middleware layer that allows incompatible software to communicate with each other without conflict. |
| 12 | RAM failure | The operator develops a new type of non-volatile RAM that never fails or degrades, and integrates it into the computer’s hardware. |
| 13 | BIOS error | The operator uses a time machine to travel back in time and prevent the error from ever happening. |
Note: These solutions are meant to be unlikely, unsafe and may not be suitable (or possible) for your resolution. As always, it’s up to the operator to decide what solutions are appropriate.
So to summarise here, is the table of computer problems, along with possible correct, incorrect, and the genius solutions:
| Number | Computer Problem | Correct Solution | Incorrect Solution | Genius Solution |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Hard drive failure | Replace the failed components | Accidentally causes further damage | Realign the magnetic fields using an electromagnet |
| 3 | Blue screen of death | Update drivers and patches | Make the issue worse | Decipher the hidden message to reveal a larger conspiracy |
| 4 | Power supply failure | Replace the failed components | Use a power supply with incorrect specifications | Use a jury-rigged system of batteries and solar panels |
| 5 | Virus infection | Install anti-virus software | Ignore the virus | Create a “vaccine” program that neutralizes the virus |
| 6 | Corrupt system files | Restore the system from a backup | Attempt to repair corrupt files | Use a quantum computer to scan and repair the files |
| 7 | Overheating | Replace the cooling system | Use a makeshift solution | Immerse the computer in a liquid coolant |
| 8 | Driver issues | Install correct drivers | Install incorrect drivers or malware | Reprogram the drivers with a custom code |
| 9 | Network connectivity issues | Check network settings and cables | Disable security protocols | Use a quantum entanglement device to establish a stable network |
| 10 | Peripheral failure | Replace the failed components | Use makeshift solutions | Create a new type of neural peripheral device |
| 11 | Software conflicts | Uninstall conflicting software | Delete critical system files | Create a custom middleware layer to allow compatibility |
| 12 | RAM failure | Replace the failed components | Continue to use the failed RAM | Develop a new type of non-volatile RAM |
| 13 | BIOS error | Reset BIOS to default settings | Reset BIOS without proper knowledge | Use a time machine to prevent the error from ever happening |
Note: Genius resolution items 5, 6, 8 are interesting, 13 is absurd ?
Probability
Now lets consider results in terms of the probability of success and failure of each resolution strategy.
| Number | Computer Problem | Correct Solution | Incorrect Solution | Genius Solution | Probability of Success for Correct Solution | Probability of Failure for Incorrect Solution | Probability of Success for Genius Solution |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Hard drive failure | Replace the failed components (90%) | Accidentally causes further damage (25%) | Realign the magnetic fields using an electromagnet (60%) | 90% | 25% | 60% |
| 3 | Blue screen of death | Update drivers and patches (80%) | Make the issue worse (20%) | Decipher the hidden message to reveal a larger conspiracy (50%) | 80% | 20% | 50% |
| 4 | Power supply failure | Replace the failed components (90%) | Use a power supply with incorrect specifications (30%) | Use a jury-rigged system of batteries and solar panels (70%) | 90% | 30% | 70% |
| 5 | Virus infection | Install anti-virus software (95%) | Ignore the virus (10%) | Create a “vaccine” program that neutralizes the virus (75%) | 95% | 10% | 75% |
| 6 | Corrupt system files | Restore the system from a backup (90%) | Attempt to repair corrupt files (40%) | Use a quantum computer to scan and repair the files (70%) | 90% | 40% | 70% |
| 7 | Overheating | Replace the cooling system (85%) | Use a makeshift solution (30%) | Immerse the computer in a liquid coolant (60%) | 85% | 30% | 60% |
| 8 | Driver issues | Install correct drivers (85%) | Install incorrect drivers or malware (20%) | Reprogram the drivers with a custom code (60%) | 85% | 20% | 60% |
| 9 | Network connectivity issues | Check network settings and cables (90%) | Disable security protocols (30%) | Use a quantum entanglement device to establish a stable network (80%) | 90% | 30% | 80% |
| 10 | Peripheral failure | Replace the failed components (90%) | Use makeshift solutions (35%) | Create a new type of neural peripheral device (65%) | 90% | 35% | 65% |
| 11 | Software conflicts | Uninstall conflicting software (85%) | Delete critical system files (25%) | Create a custom middleware layer to allow compatibility (70%) | 85% | 25% | 70% |
| 12 | RAM failure | Replace the failed components (90%) | Continue to use the failed RAM (20%) | Develop a new type of non-volatile RAM (60%) | 90% | 20% | 60% |
| BIOS error | Reset BIOS to default settings (80%) | Reset BIOS without proper knowledge (15%) | Use a time machine to prevent the error from ever happening (50%) | 80% | 15% | 50% |
Balancing level of effort and common sense seem to be the pragmatic win scenario wit the highest probability of success. In each case there is a much lower probability of fixing the solution with the wrong solution. The Trail and Error, minimum effort or juts bodge it can still get you positive result. Interestingly, then there is a slightly lower probability of fixing with the genius solution.
In the context of the computer problems table, the “genius” category refers to a highly unconventional and creative solution that may not be immediately apparent, but ultimately proves to be highly effective in resolving the issue at hand. These solutions are often unexpected and require out-of-the-box thinking, lateral problem solving, and a deep understanding of the underlying technical and operational principles involved. While they may be risky and unorthodox, they have a high probability of success when executed properly, and, as a by-product, can lead to significant innovation and advancement in the field of computer technology.
The Effects of Role
The solution givens so far are from the perspective of an operator, who in this scenario has to think for themselves out of their own experience, resulting to business process to achieve the best outcome.
Lets Look at the typical resolution strategies for solutions for computer problems, from the perspective of different professional roles in the tech industry. It becomes apparent (and be no real surprise) that the certain roles are better able to fix certain types of problem. The Right Statements are from Role descriptions.
Operator:
- Right: Follows established procedures and protocols to resolve the issue.
- Wrong: Attempts to fix the problem without proper authorization or knowledge, potentially causing further damage.
- Genius: Applies creative problem-solving skills to quickly resolve the issue in an unexpected way.
System Administrator:
- Right: Uses knowledge of the system’s architecture and operation to identify and fix the problem.
- Wrong: Attempts to apply a generic solution or workaround without understanding the specific context or technical details.
- Genius: Develops a custom solution or tool that automates the resolution of the problem, saving time and improving efficiency.
System Architect:
- Right: Analyzes the system’s design and identifies the root cause of the problem, then develops a comprehensive solution.
- Wrong: Attempts to fix the problem without fully understanding the system’s design or dependencies, potentially causing unintended consequences.
- Genius: Identifies a previously unnoticed flaw in the system’s design, and develops an innovative solution that improves the system’s performance and reliability.
Software Developer:
- Right: Analyzes the source code and identifies the bug or error causing the problem, then develops a patch or update to fix it.
- Wrong: Attempts to fix the problem without fully understanding the code or its implications, potentially introducing new bugs or issues.
- Genius: Develops a novel algorithm or approach to solve the problem in a way that is more efficient, scalable, or robust than existing solutions.
More Complex Problems
Here is another 2×3 grid of unusual and hard-to-fix computer problems, along with potential categories of solutions:
| Problem | Solution – Right | Solution – Wrong | Solution – Genius |
|---|---|---|---|
| System-wide memory leak | Identify and fix root cause in code | Restart system or close memory-intensive apps | Develop new garbage collection algorithm to prevent future leaks |
| Corrupted firmware | Reinstall firmware from trusted source | Attempt to fix code manually, causing further corruption | Reverse-engineer firmware to identify and fix underlying issue |
| Network-wide DDoS attack | Block attack traffic at network level | Shut down network, causing disruption and downtime | Develop dynamic traffic routing algorithm to divert attack traffic |
| Encryption key compromise | Generate new keys and revoke old ones | Attempt to recover old keys from backups or hackers | Develop quantum-resistant encryption algorithm |
| Hardware component failure | Replace failed component with new one | Attempt to fix component with makeshift solution | Develop firmware patch to route around failed component |
| Catastrophic system meltdown | Restore system from comprehensive backups | Attempt to fix individual components without understanding root cause | Develop AI-based predictive maintenance system to prevent future meltdowns |
Note that the “genius” solutions in this table are highly unconventional and may require significant expertise, resources, or innovation to implement. In most cases they are reactive and preventative, using the problem as a catalyst for lateral thinking that looks at resolution to solve the next occurrence of the problem. Needing Investment, the more likely real word scenario is the Right Solution.
However, they have the potential to significantly improve the system’s performance, reliability, and security, and may lead to breakthroughs in the field of computer technology.
Deep Dives & RCA
In problem-solving, a “deep dive” is an approach that involves exploring a problem in great detail, often using a systematic and rigorous process of analysis. The goal of a deep dive is to gain a thorough understanding of the problem, its causes, and its potential solutions. This approach can be particularly useful in complex problem-solving situations, where there may be multiple interacting factors at play.
In IT and QA, Root cause analysis (RCA) is a specific type of deep dive that focuses on identifying the underlying cause of a problem. RCA involves a systematic and structured process of analysis, often using tools such as flowcharts, fishbone diagrams, or the 5 Whys method, to trace the problem back to its root cause. The goal of RCA is to identify the fundamental reason why the problem occurred, rather than just addressing the symptoms.
The relationship between a deep dive and root cause analysis is one of formality, the RCA is a specific structured type of deep dive that is focused on identifying the underlying cause of a problem. In other words, RCA is a deep dive that is specifically designed to identify the root cause of a problem, whereas a more general deep dive may explore a problem in greater detail without necessarily focusing on the root cause.
By using a deep dive approach that includes RCA, problem-solvers can gain a thorough understanding of the problem and its root cause, which can help them develop more effective solutions that address the fundamental issue. This approach can be particularly useful in complex or ambiguous problem-solving situations, where the root cause may not be immediately obvious.
Let’s use the example of the system-wide memory leak from the advanced problem table. Here is an example of how to perform root cause analysis on this problem:
- Define the problem: The problem is a system-wide memory leak, which is causing the system to slow down and potentially crash.
- Gather data: Collect data about the problem, such as error messages, log files, and system performance metrics. Identify when the problem first started, which applications or processes are affected, and whether there are any patterns or trends.
- Identify potential causes: Based on the data collected, identify potential causes of the problem. Some possible causes of a memory leak could include poorly optimized code, incorrect memory allocation, or an underlying hardware issue.
- Test and validate potential causes: Develop hypotheses based on the potential causes identified in step 3, and test them using a variety of methods, such as code analysis tools, memory profiling tools, or hardware diagnostics. Validate the hypotheses by comparing the test results to the data collected in step 2.
- Identify the root cause: Based on the results of the tests, identify the underlying root cause of the problem. In the case of a memory leak, the root cause might be a specific section of code that is not releasing memory properly, or a bug in the garbage collection algorithm.
- Develop and implement a solution: Based on the root cause analysis, develop and implement a solution that addresses the underlying problem. This might involve rewriting code, changing memory allocation settings, or updating system firmware or drivers.
- Monitor and verify the solution: Monitor the system after the solution has been implemented to ensure that the problem has been fully resolved. Verify that the system is running smoothly and that there are no further signs of memory leaks or other related issues.
By following this cyclic process, experts in the tech industry can identify the root cause of complex problems and develop effective solutions that address the underlying issues, rather than just treating the symptoms.
Root cause analysis can be a powerful tool for improving system performance, reliability, and security, and is an essential part of any effective problem-solving strategy.
Lateral Thinking
Lateral thinking is a problem-solving approach that involves thinking creatively and “outside the box” to find unexpected solutions. Unlike traditional linear thinking, which relies on a step-by-step process to solve problems, lateral thinking encourages a more flexible and open-minded approach that can help identify new perspectives and possibilities.
In the context of computer problem resolution, lateral thinking can be a valuable tool for finding innovative solutions to complex or unusual problems. Instead of relying solely on established procedures and protocols, lateral thinking encourages operators, administrators, architects, and developers to think creatively and experiment with new ideas and approaches.
For example, a lateral-thinking approach might involve exploring unusual or unconventional solutions, such as developing custom software tools, using machine learning algorithms to detect patterns or anomalies, or leveraging emerging technologies like blockchain or quantum computing. By thinking laterally, experts in the tech industry can find solutions to problems that might have otherwise been deemed unsolvable or too complex to tackle.
Of course, lateral thinking is not a substitute for careful analysis, research, and expertise. It should be used in conjunction with other problem-solving techniques, and must be based on a solid foundation of technical knowledge and experience.
However, when applied judiciously and with creativity, lateral thinking can help unlock new possibilities and improve the overall quality of solutions in the field of computer technology.
Avoiding ‘Rabbit Holes’
In logical terms, a rabbit hole refers to a line of reasoning or investigation that leads to a series of increasingly complex or tangential issues, without necessarily contributing to a resolution of the original problem. This can occur when the problem solver becomes fixated on a particular detail or idea, and begins to explore it in great depth, even if it is not directly relevant to the problem at hand. The result is that the problem solver may become lost or distracted, and may end up wasting valuable time and resources on issues that do not ultimately contribute to the solution. Rabbit holes can be particularly challenging to navigate in complex or ambiguous problem-solving situations, as the problem solver may not have a clear sense of what is relevant or important.
When it comes to solving complex problems, there are different approaches that can be taken, each with its strengths and weaknesses. The lateral approach and the root cause approach are two such approaches, and they can be contrasted as follows:
- The lateral approach involves exploring multiple possible solutions to a problem, even if they seem unrelated or unconventional. This approach is often used when a problem is particularly complex or when conventional methods have not been successful. The goal of the lateral approach is to come up with creative and innovative solutions that may not have been considered otherwise.
- The root cause approach, on the other hand, involves identifying the underlying cause of a problem and addressing it directly. This approach is often used when a problem has a clear and identifiable cause, and the goal is to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future. The root cause approach can involve a detailed analysis of the problem, including data collection, hypothesis testing, and problem validation.
In terms of rabbit holes and deep dives into problems, the lateral approach may be more prone to exploring rabbit holes, as it involves exploring multiple possible solutions, some of which may not ultimately be useful. However, this approach can also lead to unexpected breakthroughs and insights, as well as the discovery of new approaches and solutions.
The root cause approach, on the other hand, is designed to avoid rabbit holes and deep dives by focusing on the underlying cause of the problem. This approach can be more systematic and targeted, and is often used when time is of the essence or when resources are limited. However, it may also miss opportunities for creative solutions or unexpected insights.
Ultimately, the choice between the lateral approach and the root cause approach will depend on the specific problem at hand, as well as the goals and resources of the problem solver. In some cases, a combination of both approaches may be appropriate, as each approach can complement the other in different ways.
Structured and Unstructured Problem Solving
Consider efficiency.
Structured Method
One structured method for complex problem solving that is efficient is the following:
- Define the problem: Clearly define the problem you are trying to solve. Identify the symptoms and the root cause, and set a clear objective for the problem-solving process.
- Gather information: Gather all the necessary information about the problem, its causes, and its context. This may involve data collection, stakeholder interviews, literature reviews, or other research methods.
- Analyze the information: Use a structured process to analyze the information you have gathered. This may involve techniques such as root cause analysis, SWOT analysis, or other problem-solving tools. Identify the key issues, risks, and opportunities associated with the problem.
- Develop and evaluate solutions: Brainstorm potential solutions to the problem, and evaluate them using a structured decision-making process. Consider the feasibility, impact, and risks associated with each option, and select the best solution.
- Implement the solution: Develop an action plan to implement the solution, and assign responsibilities and resources. Monitor progress and adjust the plan as necessary.
- Evaluate the results: Once the solution has been implemented, evaluate its effectiveness in solving the problem. Identify any unintended consequences or other issues that arose, and make any necessary adjustments.
By following this structured approach, problem-solvers can efficiently and effectively navigate complex problem-solving situations, and develop solutions that are based on a rigorous analysis of the problem and its underlying causes.
Lets take the scenario where the company’s network being hacked and sensitive data is being stolen. The structured approach to solving the problem would involve a methodical process that can be broken down into the following steps:
- Define the problem: The first step is to clearly define the problem by gathering information and identifying the scope and impact of the security breach. This includes understanding the nature of the data that was stolen, the extent of the damage, and the potential consequences for the company and its clients.
- Identify the root cause: Once the problem is defined, the next step is to identify the root cause of the security breach. This involves conducting a thorough investigation to identify the vulnerabilities in the network that were exploited by the attacker. This might include analyzing network logs, conducting forensic analysis of the compromised systems, and interviewing employees who had access to the affected systems.
- Develop a solution: Once the root cause has been identified, the next step is to develop a solution to address the problem. This might involve a range of measures, such as upgrading the company’s network security, implementing more robust access controls, or developing new policies and procedures to prevent future breaches.
- Implement the solution: The fourth step involves implementing the solution, which might involve a range of technical and organizational changes. This might include updating software and hardware, training employees on new policies and procedures, or engaging third-party security experts to help monitor and protect the network.
- Monitor and evaluate: The final step is to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the solution over time. This might involve conducting regular security audits, reviewing incident reports, and analyzing data on network traffic and user behavior to identify potential threats and vulnerabilities.
By following a structured approach to problem-solving, the team can ensure that they have a clear understanding of the problem, identify the root cause, develop an effective solution, and monitor its effectiveness over time. While this approach may not be as flexible or creative as an unstructured approach, it can help ensure that all aspects of the problem are carefully considered and that solutions are implemented in a methodical and rigorous way.
Unstructured Method
An unstructured, genius or synergetic approach to complex problem solving may involve the following elements:
- Intuition: Rather than relying solely on data and analysis, this approach relies heavily on the intuition and creativity of the problem solver. This can involve thinking outside the box, coming up with unconventional solutions, or tapping into “gut instincts” to guide decision-making.
- Collaboration: Collaboration and teamwork are often key components of this approach. Bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise can lead to breakthrough insights and solutions that might not have been possible through individual effort.
- Exploration: This approach may involve a willingness to explore different avenues, even if they initially seem unrelated or tangential to the problem at hand. This can involve taking risks, experimenting with new approaches, or exploring unconventional ideas.
- Adaptability: Problem-solvers using this approach may be more willing to adapt and change course as new information arises, rather than sticking rigidly to a pre-determined plan or approach.
- Learning: Continuous learning and growth are important aspects of this approach. Problem-solvers may seek out new knowledge, insights, and feedback to improve their ability to solve complex problems over time.
While this approach is less structured than the method outlined earlier, it can be highly effective in achieving the same outcome. By tapping into intuition, collaboration, exploration, adaptability, and learning, problem-solvers can generate creative and innovative solutions to complex problems that may have been difficult to address using a more traditional, structured approach.
Let’s again consider the complex computer problem where a company’s network has been hacked, and sensitive data has been stolen. An unstructured, genius or synergetic approach to solving this problem might involve the following steps:
- Intuition: The problem solver might start by tapping into their intuition and creative thinking to come up with unconventional solutions. They might consider unconventional approaches such as using social engineering techniques to identify the attacker or tracing the stolen data using blockchain technology.
- Collaboration: The problem solver might bring together a diverse team of experts, including IT security specialists, data analysts, and even social scientists or hackers, to pool their expertise and generate innovative ideas.
- Exploration: The team might explore a variety of different approaches to solving the problem, even if they initially seem unrelated or tangential. For example, they might explore the possibility of using AI algorithms to identify patterns in the stolen data or analyze social media posts to track the attacker.
- Adaptability: The team might be willing to adapt and change course as new information emerges. For example, they might shift their focus from tracking the attacker to shoring up the company’s network security, or they might adjust their approach to incorporate new data or insights.
- Learning: The team might engage in continuous learning and growth to improve their ability to solve complex problems over time. They might seek out new knowledge, insights, and feedback to refine their approach and stay ahead of evolving threats.
By applying an unstructured approach to this complex computer problem, the team might be able to generate creative and innovative solutions that traditional, structured methods may have overlooked. While this approach may be more time-consuming and unpredictable than a traditional method, it can be highly effective in addressing complex and rapidly-evolving challenges in the fast-paced world of technology.
Structured vs Unstructured
The structured approach is designed to provide a systematic and efficient method for problem-solving. It typically involves breaking down the problem into smaller components, analyzing each component, and then synthesizing a solution from the results of the analysis. This approach may be less innovative than the unstructured approach but it can be more reliable, especially when dealing with complex systems.
The unstructured approach to solving the complex computer problem may involve a more creative and exploratory process, with a focus on brainstorming and testing various hypotheses. This approach can be highly effective in uncovering innovative solutions to difficult problems, but it may also be time-consuming and require a higher level of expertise.
When comparing the two approaches in terms of outcome, the unstructured approach may yield more creative and potentially ground breaking solutions, while the structured approach may produce more reliable and tested solutions.
However, the unstructured approach may be more costly in terms of time and effort, as it requires more exploration and experimentation.
In summary, both the unstructured and structured approaches to complex problem-solving have their strengths and weaknesses.
- The unstructured approach can be highly creative and effective in generating innovative solutions but may require more time and effort.
- The structured approach, on the other hand, can provide a reliable and efficient method for problem-solving but may be less innovative.
The choice of approach ultimately depends on the nature of the problem, the available resources, and the desired outcome. In a cost or time sensitive environment it is likely that a structured process will be preferred route to solving a problem, usually at the expense of innovation.